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Coast Guard W Region IG reviews maritime security, Mangaluru to lead


Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Sep 8, 2015 : Inspector General K Natarajan, commander, Coast Guard Region (West) visited Karnataka on Sept  7,  to review Indian Coast Guard operations and infrastructure development. During the visit, he had called on Vajubhai Vala, the governor.


 Coast Guard W Region IG reviews maritime security, Mangaluru to leadThis was Natarajan’s maiden visit to ICG unit Karnataka after taking over as Commander on July 27. He visited various units and advised the personnel to undertake operations at sea in a professional manner. Mangaluru would figure prominently in this regard.

Noting that challenges and threats to security are increasing every day and the Coast Guard units  need to stand up to the new challenges, Natarajan said post 26/11, Indian Coast Guard has witnessed rapid expansion to enhance surveillance at sea. To boost aerial surveillance off Karnataka coast and to render swift response to search and rescue call at sea, an air enclave is likely to be shortly commissioned at Mangaluru.  

An offshore vessel with integrated helicopter landing deck is also likely to be positioned in the city with the development of berthing facilities. A hover port for the two air cushion vessels is also being developed for safe and smooth operation of the hovercrafts from the shores of Mangaluru. The land has been identified and awaiting necessary environment clearance, Natarajan who discussed this issues with the Governor and other state government, officials, said.

The district headquarters number 3 (Karnataka) functioning from Mangaluru has four fast patrol vessels, two hovercrafts and a remote operating station. The ICG station Karwar functioning under the operational control of DHQ-3 has two interceptor boats and two interceptor crafts at Karwar. In addition, there is a Coast Guard aeronautical overseeing team at Bengaluru. Natarajan thanked the support of the state government towards development of the ICG in Karnataka.